If you don't like a horse, don't bet on it.

Give preference to winners. Choose a horse that has won before.

Avoid betting on a horse that has just moved up in class.

Look for value odds as much as likely winners. If you keep looking for them, you will learn to spot them fairly quickly.

Look for a horse that has a fair chance of winning and is not overly backed. This is usually a good value bet in the long run. On odds of say, 10:1, you need to win once in ten attempts to break even. Anything more is net profit. Horses backed heavily by touting services and computer handicappers may win more often, but are usually poor value bets.

When the track is slow or heavy, give preference to fast starters. Slow, muddy and heavy track conditions usually favor the horse that takes an early lead.

A straight bet is simple, manageable and not too difficult to win. Play it but always weigh up the odds. Avoid favorites and long shots (outsiders) too. Be selective - don't bet on anything or everything.

When betting straight, consider betting to win and show, or each-way, if the odds are relatively high.